FC CLACTON boss Kieron Shelley believes his on-song players have given themselves a “real platform” to climb the Thurlow Nunn League table.

The Seasiders are unbeaten in four premier division matches – having won their last three home games – following Monday’s 2-0 success against Haverhill Rovers at the Rush Green Bowl.

They remain second from bottom – a point above basement boys Swaffham Town – but now within five of their next opponents, Walsham-le-Willows.

Shelley is confident his rejuvenated side can reel in the sides above and has urged his players to keep believing in themselves.

“From where we were three months ago, the turnaround has been unbelievable,” he said.

“We’re unbeaten in four and have won three home games in a row, which sounds strange to say.

“But the feeling in the changing room is so much better.

“Everyone’s buzzing and everyone’s signing from the same hymn sheet.

“We know we’ve got to be at the races in every game.

“There are no second chances or thinking ‘oh well, we’ll win our next game’.

“The players have all got that mentality that it’s do-or-die.

“They’re all in it together and out there as a unit.

“We’re right in the hunt and I just hope my boys keep believing in themselves, because they’ve given themselves a real platform.

“A month and a half ago we didn’t have any points. Now we’ve got 15.”

Skipper Kevin Coyle and Adam Daniels scored the goals against Haverhill.

And while delighted with the three points, Shelley said a rare clean was the icing on the cake.

“I was so pleased about that,” he said.

“For a team to keep a clean sheet when they’re second-bottom from the table means they’ve given 100%.

“In the first half we were a bit laboured and it was a bit scrappy.

“But in the second, the players really responded well.

“They were lively all over the pitch, doing what they had to do and putting the ball into the right areas.

“It was spot on and that’s why we kept a clean sheet.

“The players listened to their instructions and carried them out to perfection.

“They executed the game plan very well.

“Everyone went out and did their business.

“Matt Stace was superb at right-back.

“Ollie Law started the game this week and also did really well.

“Josh Vaughan was another who had another very good game.

“He picked up another yellow card but that’s his role – to be a spoiler.

“He’s not someone people will want to play against so he will pick up cards along the way.”

After Saturday’s trip to Walsham, Clacton return to the Bowl on January 14 for a home game against Fakenham Town.

They then end the month with a tricky trip to Great Yarmouth Town.

Long Melford (away), Gorleston (home) and Thetford (away) provide the opposition in February.

“The people that are coming to watch us are hopefully enjoying the football being played,” added Shelley.

“It’s no longer a case of playing scrappy football and banging the ball 40 or 50 yards.

“We’ve got a bit about us and players who like to get on the ball and make it work.

“I’m pleased for the fans who turned out.

“It’s an expensive time of year to come out and spend more money to watch us play.

“But I’m sure they will have left happy after Monday.”